Renewable Energy, also known as green energy, is the resource that is replaced rapidly by a natural process such as power generated from the sun or from the wind. These resources play a vital role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In the face of global warming and severe environmental issues, adoption of renewable energy sources has become critically important. The Government of India, under the Ministry of Power & NRE (New and Renewable Energy), is pushing forward various initiatives to promote the use of renewable energy.
Delving into Green Energy Open Access Rules 2022
Earlier in 2022, the Indian Government notified the Electricity (Promoting Renewable Energy Through Green Energy Open Access) Rules. The central aim of these rules is to expedite India’s ambitious Renewable Energy programs to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and green energy for everyone. Moreover, with the goal of achieving India’s updated NDC (Nationally Determined Contributions) target for 2030, these rules intend to cut emissions by 45%.
Generation, Purchase and Consumption of Green Energy
These new rules facilitate the promotion of the generation, purchase, and consumption of green energy, including the energy derived from Waste-to-Energy plants. A uniform Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO) is a prominent feature of these rules. Also, substances like Green Hydrogen/Green Ammonia have been included for fulfilling the RPO.
Green Open Access for all Consumers
An Open Access Consumer will be permitted to benefit from Green Open Access. The limit of Open Access Transaction has been lessened from 1 MW to 100 kW for green energy. This change has been introduced to encourage smaller consumers to purchase renewable power through open access as well.
Role of Discoms and Captive Consumers
Discoms (Distribution Companies) are obliged to procure and supply green power to eligible consumers. Captive consumers, who have limited or no choice but to purchase a particular product or service due to various factors, will have more options under these rules.
The Significance of Green Energy Open Access Rules 2022
The implementation of the Green Energy Open Access Rules 2022 is expected to be a monumental stride towards reaching India’s commitment to 500 GW of non-fossil fuel energy by 2030. It is also projected to motivate smaller industries, commercial consumers, and large households to shift towards green energy.
Other Initiatives Related to Green Energy Transition
Several other initiatives related to renewable energy transition have been launched by the government. These include Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana (SAUBHAGYA), Green Energy Corridor (GEC), National Smart Grid Mission (NSGM), Smart Meter National Programme, Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles (FAME), International Solar Alliance (ISA), and PM- KUSUM (Pradhan Mantri-Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan).